Husqvarna's Norden 901 will be a production model

Reception to the Norden concept was largely positive (Spurgeon had reservations), and I'm not surprised to hear that they’re going to actually build the Norden. Come on, look at it. They've been fussing over this bike for a while.

What does surprise me is that they’ve confirmed the model so soon after EICMA. I'm used to a few more years of prototypes, then a couple production rumors over a couple more years, and then bikes in showrooms half a decade later. That's about what happened with their Vitpilen and Svartpilen street bikes a few years back. The Norden seems to be on a much tighter schedule.

Husqvarna has not announced the holy trinity of numbers, so I have no idea what it’ll cost, how much it’ll weigh, or how it’ll perform. Sorry.

We’re promised “class-leading lightness and power delivery,” at least. What’s the Norden's class, exactly? If they’re comparing to KTM’s 790 Adventure, that could put the Norden somewhere around 470 pounds wet.

Husky also claims “perfect balance between off-road performance and touring ability.” Perfect like 50/50? That would make the Norden less aggressive than the 790 Adventure, which might work out for the best. Since KTM owns Husqvarna, they don’t stand to gain much by offering two identical ADV bikes. 

Husky confirmed a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels with WP handling the suspension. The engine displaces 889.5 cc, as expected. At this point, I think it’s safe to guess that it’s a lot like the 890 Duke R’s engine.

Good on Husqvarna for making a compelling concept, showing it off, and keeping things moving after the show was over. Bring 'em out, Husky. I want to see a Norden covered in mud.